A heavy-lift operation at Mumbai Port escalated into a serious accident on the evening of 30 August, when a shore-based mobile crane overturned towards the Barbados-flagged bulk carrier VIENNA and caught fire.

According to Mumbai Police, a 140-tonne cargo was being discharged from the vessel at BPS Berth, Indira Dock, using two mobile cranes operated by private contractor Barkat.

During the tandem lift, a sling attached to the cargo on one crane reportedly became unbalanced and came loose. The entire load was suddenly transferred to the second crane, lifting it off the ground. Its telescopic boom then struck the vessel, with the impact and friction reportedly triggering the fire.

Two crane operators were injured and taken to St George Hospital. The Mumbai Port Authority Fire Brigade, assisted by the vessel’s crew, brought the blaze under control and secured the affected area.

Mumbai Port Authority has ordered a detailed investigation. Statutory safety officials have inspected the site, while representatives of the vessel, P&I interests, insurers and the terminal operator are participating in surveys and assessments. Arrangements are also being made to remove the damaged crane safely. The full extent of damage has yet to be disclosed.

VIENNA (IMO 9222625) is a 52,224-dwt Supramax bulk carrier built in 2001. ClassNK lists Link Global Limited as both its registered owner and manager, with public maritime records placing the company in Shanghai.

A photograph circulating with the report shows the name HARVEST SUN. Class records confirm that HARVEST SUN was a former name of the same vessel.

One important correction: several Chinese-language reports placed the accident at Mundra Port. The verified location was BPS Berth at Indira Dock, Mumbai Port.

The accident offers another stark warning about tandem heavy lifts: rigging integrity, load-sharing calculations, crane configuration and real-time supervision must function as one integrated safety system.